How can Member States achieve more effective implementation of the CFP objectives?

On 4 December, 2018, WWF hosted an engaging discussion about making the objectives of the reformed CFP reality in the lead up to the 2020 deadline for Good Environmental Status in European seas.

Hosted by Clara Aguilera MEP,Alain Cadec (Chair of Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE)), and WWF, this debate coincided with the launch of a new WWF report assessing Member State implementation of the reformed Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) since 2013.

The event focused on the bottom-up approaches of Atlantic fishers to safeguard their industry, the successful outcomes from voluntary tracking and reporting by small scale fishing vessels in the Mediterranean Sea, and the solutions underway for stock recovery in the North Sea. By showcasing different solutions from across Europe, the discussion sought to further effective implementation of the CFP with the stakeholders in attendance, and of fisheries best practices in time for 2020 deadlines and beyond.

Two fishers featured on the debate panel, contributing to vibrant discussions and revelations about best practices for achieving sustainable fisheries in the EU and explored some of the difficulties experienced in implementing the reformed CFP. Attendees to the event had the opportunity to pose questions to the panel, further contributing to an interesting discussion.